Tariffs Could Delay Next Gloomhaven Games (And Raise Tabletop Prices)

Ever since President Trump implemented broad tariffs on goods imported into the U.S., numerous businesses and consumers have had to assess how these taxes might affect them. Even gamers aren’t exempt from this, as the tariffs are comprehensive and primarily target anything shipped into the U.S. Consequently, there have been delays for preorders of the Nintendo Switch 2 in the States, along with modifications to trading card grading procedures for companies like PSA. Now, the COO of Cephalofair, the company behind popular tabletop games such as Gloomhaven and Frosthaven, shares their insights on the current situation within the tabletop gaming industry.

While it’s true that imposing tariffs is intended to encourage domestic manufacturing, it’s important to note that many products, such as those produced by tabletop gaming companies like Cephalofair, aren’t currently made in the United States. Instead, these companies collaborate with manufacturers in countries like China to obtain the components necessary for their products. Ironically, some of the same countries, like China, which are relied upon for creating games such as ‘Gloomhaven’, are also subject to high tariffs. In fact, China currently faces a 104% tariff from the U.S.

Price Johnson, Cephalofair Games’ COO, clarifies that the production cost for their games has risen by a significant 104%. This is due to the many custom components and printed materials involved in creating board games, which can squeeze profit margins even under optimal circumstances. Consequently, it’s common to see board game projects launched through crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter or Backerkit. In this context, Johnson offers insights about the upcoming Gloomhaven Grand Festival.

The newly announced Gloomhaven campaign is a tribute to several past Gloomhaven games, and backers will receive various items such as copies of the Gloomhaven RPG, Gloomhaven Second Edition, Frosthaven, and other goodies. Typically, backers would receive updates on the production progress and estimated release dates for new Gloomhaven board games and minis. However, this week, Johnson discussed how increased tariff costs could affect Gloomhaven and the broader tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) industry in light of potential tariff impacts.

How Tariffs Could Affect Tabletop Games and Gamers

According to Johnson’s observation, many tabletop gaming industry products don’t have access to U.S. manufacturing, which has led to a heavy reliance on Chinese facilities for production. If the current tariffs continue, these productions will become significantly more expensive. Similar to Nintendo strategizing over potential sales of Switch 2 in the U.S., Cephalofair is also carefully weighing the implications of rising costs when creating their popular game, Gloomhaven. At present, there are three projects underway, and while they aim to fulfill their commitments to backers, Johnson highlights that their future moves remain uncertain due to constant changes in circumstances.

Similar to Gloomhaven, numerous tabletop games across the U.S. might face challenges if tariffs continue at their current levels. This could potentially cripple the industry, as many small-scale manufacturers might struggle with the higher production costs. As a result, board game enthusiasts may find it more difficult to obtain their preferred games and experience a reduction in new releases. The games that are available will probably become more expensive.

As a dedicated gamer, I’m always keeping an eye on the ever-shifting landscape of tariffs. It’s tricky to foresee exactly where things will end up or how they’ll affect businesses and players in the U.S., but one thing is certain – companies like Caphalofair are worried about what a potential rise in import costs could imply for the future of tabletop games we all love.

2025-04-09 20:40

How Tariffs Could Affect Tabletop Games and Gamers

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